To successfully cultivate me indoors, you must first understand my natural growth cycle, which is opposite to many common houseplants. I am a geophyte, meaning I grow from a true bulb. My year is divided into two distinct phases: a summer dormancy and an active winter growth period. From late spring through summer, I require a warm, dry rest period. This is when my foliage will yellow and die back—do not be alarmed; this is essential for me to set flower buds. As daylight shortens in late summer or early autumn, I will break dormancy, sending up a flower stalk followed by strap-like foliage. During this active growth and bloom phase, I demand the brightest light possible. A south-facing window is ideal. Insufficient light will result in weak, floppy foliage and a failure to bloom.
My bulb is highly susceptible to rot, so the choice of potting medium and container is critical. I require an extremely well-draining, gritty mix. A perfect blend for me would be one part standard potting soil, one part coarse horticultural sand or perlite, and one part fine gravel or pumice. The goal is to create a mix that drains instantly and does not hold water around my base. The pot must have excellent drainage holes. A terracotta pot is preferable to plastic as it is porous and helps the medium dry out more quickly. When potting, position my bulb so that its neck and shoulders are above the soil surface; I should not be planted deeply like other bulbs. Crowding my roots is beneficial, so a pot that seems a bit small is perfect, as it encourages blooming and reduces the risk of soil staying soggy.
Your watering regimen must sync perfectly with my growth cycle. When I am dormant in the summer, you must withhold water almost entirely. The potting medium should remain completely dry. The only exception is if my bulb begins to shrivel excessively, in which case a very slight watering can be offered. Once you see my flower stalk emerging in the autumn, you can begin watering. Water thoroughly, allowing water to flow freely from the drainage holes, but then allow the top half of the potting mix to dry out before watering again. Never let my pot sit in a saucer of water. As my foliage develops, you can begin feeding me. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 3-4 weeks. Cease feeding once my flowers fade and the foliage begins to yellow, signaling the approach of my summer dormancy.
I thrive in conditions that mimic my native South African habitat. During my active growth period in autumn and winter, I prefer moderate household temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). I appreciate a slight drop in nighttime temperatures. Most importantly, I require very good air circulation to prevent fungal issues but do not need high humidity; average household humidity is sufficient. The key temperature management is during my summer dormancy. I need a warm and dry rest. The spot where I spend my dormancy should be consistently warm, around 70-80°F (21-27°C). This warm, dry period is non-negotiable for the development of my spectacular flower buds.
